USASBE Conference 2024: Forging the Future of Entrepreneurship
In January 2024, the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) convened its annual conference in Birmingham, Alabama, under the theme “Forging the Future Together.” This gathering of over 2,000 attendees, including researchers, educators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, served as a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and leadership in the realm of entrepreneurship education and practice.
Conference Highlights:
Top Individual Awards Presented:
The conference celebrated the remarkable achievements of two individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of entrepreneurship.
Dr. Dianne H.B. Welsh, Hayes Distinguished Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, was honored with the Max S. Wortman, Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award for Entrepreneurship. Her pioneering work in cross-disciplinary entrepreneurship programs, family business, and franchising has left an indelible mark on the discipline. The award was presented by Dr. Jill Kickul, Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business.Dr. Charles H. Matthews, Distinguished Teaching Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy at the University of Cincinnati Carl H. Lindner College of Business, received the USASBE Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year Award. Dr. Matthews’ exceptional leadership and innovation in entrepreneurship education have inspired generations of students and contributed to the advancement of the field. The nomination for this award was spearheaded by Dr. Geralyn McClure Franklin, the 2023 recipient of the Max S. Wortman, Jr. USASBE Lifetime Achievement Award for Entrepreneurship, and other esteemed colleagues.Conference Sessions and Activities:
The conference featured a diverse array of sessions and activities that catered to the wide-ranging interests of attendees.
Keynote Speakers: Inspirational keynote addresses delivered by prominent entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers provided thought-provoking insights into the latest trends and challenges shaping the entrepreneurship landscape.Concurrent Sessions: Attendees had the opportunity to delve into a variety of concurrent sessions covering a spectrum of entrepreneurship-related topics, including entrepreneurship education and pedagogy, small business management and operations, family business and entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship and sustainability, technology and innovation in entrepreneurship, and international entrepreneurship.Panel Discussions: Engaging panel discussions facilitated by experts in their respective fields allowed attendees to participate in lively debates and discussions on critical issues facing the entrepreneurship community.Networking Opportunities: The conference provided ample opportunities for attendees to connect, collaborate, and build relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers. These interactions fostered a sense of community and opened avenues for future collaborations, business partnerships, and mentoring opportunities.Conference Impact:
The USASBE 2024 conference was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the field of entrepreneurship. The conference’s theme, “Forging the Future Together,” resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of collaboration and collective action in driving innovation and shaping the future of entrepreneurship. The recognition of Dr. Dianne H.B. Welsh and Dr. Charles H. Matthews with prestigious awards further emphasized the significant contributions of individuals in advancing the discipline.
The conference provided a platform for attendees to learn from experts, exchange ideas, and explore new perspectives, ultimately fostering a stronger and more vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem. The connections formed and the knowledge shared at the conference will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower entrepreneurs and educators alike, propelling the field of entrepreneurship towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
As the USASBE community looks towards the future, the spirit of collaboration and innovation fostered at the 2024 conference will serve as a guiding force in shaping the next chapter of entrepreneurship education and practice. By working together, entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers can create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits all.
